The Diploma in Policing at WSU requirements for 2027: an NSC with at least a diploma endorsement, an APS of at least 21, rating 3 (40-49%) in English (Home Language or First Additional Language) and rating 3 (40-49%) in any other four subjects. The diploma is offered at the Butterworth campus (2027 information brochure).
No Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirement is listed for this diploma. General applications for the 2027 intake close on 31 October 2026.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- Qualification: Diploma in Policing, qualification code W61012, SAQA ID 97050
- Level and length: NQF 6, 360 credits, three years
- Campus: Butterworth, in the Faculty of Management & Public Administration Sciences
- Certificate: NSC with at least a diploma endorsement
- APS: at least 21
- Subjects: rating 3 (40-49%) in English, and rating 3 in any other four subjects
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
WSU’s statutory minimum for any diploma is an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching and rating 3 (40-49%) or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects, excluding Life Orientation. The Diploma in Policing sets its own entry on top of that, as above.
The brochure describes the qualification as preparing graduates for the law enforcement environment and raising professional standards of policing. It does not present the diploma as an entry route into the South African Police Service, so check SAPS directly if joining the Service is your aim.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
WSU calculates your APS from your best six subjects, excluding Life Orientation: up to two languages (Home Language and First Additional Language) plus your four highest other subjects. Marks convert to points as follows: 90-100% = 8, 80-89% = 7, 70-79% = 6, 60-69% = 5, 50-59% = 4, 40-49% = 3, 30-39% = 2, 0-30% = 1.
For this diploma that means English at rating 3 or better, any four other subjects at rating 3 or better, and a total APS of at least 21. Old Senior Certificate, NC(V) and international applicants should check the detailed faculty prospectus.
Documents and Application Requirements
Apply online through the WSU application process page. The application fee is R100, non-refundable, and must not be paid into any individual’s bank account. Upload PDF, PNG or JPEG files of up to 5 MB each:
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- A certified copy of your passport (international applicants)
- A copy of your matric or academic results
Incomplete applications will not be processed. International applications for 2027 closed on 30 September 2026.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place. Admission depends on academic eligibility, space availability and faculty-specific selection criteria where they apply. Ask the faculty at Butterworth whether this diploma has any further selection step.
General applications for 2027 close on 31 October 2026. Figures here are for the 2027 intake and may change for later cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the WSU diploma in policing requirements?
An NSC with a diploma endorsement, an APS of at least 21, rating 3 (40-49%) in English and rating 3 in any other four subjects, for the 2027 intake.
Do I need Mathematics for the Diploma in Policing at WSU?
No Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirement is listed for this diploma in the 2027 brochure.
Which campus offers the Diploma in Policing?
Butterworth campus, in the Faculty of Management & Public Administration Sciences.
When do applications close?
General applications for 2027 close on 31 October 2026.
Does this diploma get me into SAPS?
WSU does not describe it as an entry route into SAPS. It prepares graduates for the law enforcement environment. Confirm SAPS recruitment requirements with SAPS.
Confirm the final position with Walter Sisulu University admissions. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.